The Last Stand: Toyota Tacoma Remains the Only Manual Pickup Truck in 2027





The manual transmission pickup truck is becoming a relic of the past, with the 2027 Toyota Tacoma emerging as the sole offering in the American market for enthusiasts who prefer a three-pedal driving experience. While other manufacturers, such as Jeep with its Gladiator, have either discontinued or not confirmed the return of manual options, Toyota is maintaining this tradition for a select portion of its Tacoma lineup. This decision highlights a niche market for traditionalists, even as the vast majority of truck buyers opt for automatic transmissions.
Despite the low take rate for manual Tacomas, hovering between one and two percent, Toyota continues to provide this option on several non-hybrid trims. This commitment to offering a manual gearbox, even in a segment where it's rapidly disappearing, positions the Tacoma as a unique and potentially valuable vehicle for collectors in the coming years. Its combination of robust performance and the engaging experience of a manual transmission sets it apart in a market increasingly dominated by automatic models.
Tacoma's Manual Transmission Offerings
For those seeking the rare experience of shifting gears themselves in a brand-new pickup, the 2027 Toyota Tacoma offers a six-speed manual gearbox as a complimentary choice on particular non-hybrid variants. This includes the SR, TRD Sport, and TRD Off-Road models, provided customers select the double-cab configuration with a five-foot bed and four-wheel drive. These manual-equipped Tacomas deliver an impressive 270 horsepower and 310 pound-feet of torque, with a towing capacity of up to 6,400 pounds. These specifications make the manual Tacoma a capable and engaging option for both work and recreation, all starting at an accessible price point just under $40,000 for the SR trim.
The availability of a manual transmission on these specific Tacoma trims provides a unique opportunity for truck buyers who value direct engagement with their vehicle's powertrain. The TRD Off-Road model, in particular, combines the tactile pleasure of a manual gearbox with enhanced interior features and specialized off-road capabilities, making it a highly desirable choice for adventurers. This blend of traditional driving mechanics and modern truck functionality underscores Toyota's commitment to catering to a diverse range of consumer preferences, even as the automotive industry shifts predominantly towards automatic systems. The limited availability and specific configuration requirements further emphasize the unique position of these manual Tacomas in the current market.
The Decline of Manual Pickups
The widespread adoption of automatic transmissions across the pickup truck segment signals a clear trend away from manual gearboxes. Historically, heavy-duty and full-size trucks transitioned to automatics years ago, and mid-size pickups are now following suit. The low demand for manual options, evidenced by the one to two percent take rate for the Tacoma and similarly low figures for past contenders like the Jeep Gladiator, provides little incentive for manufacturers to continue offering them. This market shift reflects consumer preference for the convenience and perceived efficiency of automatic transmissions, making manual gearboxes an increasingly niche offering.
The disappearance of manual transmissions in pickup trucks is largely driven by evolving consumer expectations and advancements in automatic transmission technology, which often offer superior fuel economy and performance. As fewer buyers opt for manual setups, the economic viability for automakers to produce and integrate them diminishes. This trend transforms the remaining manual-equipped vehicles, such as the Toyota Tacoma, into unique commodities. For a select group of enthusiasts, owning one of these final manual trucks represents a connection to a fading automotive tradition, potentially elevating its status as a collector's item in the future. This scarcity creates a distinctive appeal for those who appreciate the driving experience only a manual transmission can provide.